TENNIS: Murray says coaching stint with Djokovic was learning experience

Andy Murray Reflects on Coaching Novak Djokovic: ‘A Valuable Learning Experience’

Andy Murray described his six-month tenure as Novak Djokovic’s coach as a valuable learning experience, even though the high-profile partnership ended without a title.

The three-time Grand Slam champion joined Djokovic’s coaching team in November 2024 after retiring from professional tennis following the Paris Olympics. However, the partnership concluded in May, just before this year’s French Open.

“I look back on it, and I’m glad I did it,” Murray told The Athletic’s The Tennis Podcast. “I was fully invested. I had committed to a skiing holiday before I took the job, and I explained that to him. But I was sitting there at 11 p.m., watching videos of his matches over in Australia, editing videos to send to him.”

During Murray’s time as coach, Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz to reach the semi-finals at the Australian Open. Unfortunately, the 24-time Grand Slam winner suffered a hamstring injury and retired after just one set against Alexander Zverev.

“It was unfortunate what happened in Australia with the injury, but I watched him play ridiculous tennis in that tournament,” Murray said. “After the injury, it was certainly a difficult few months for him, but also, I think, for the team and all of us. So yeah, I was disappointed. Probably didn’t get the results I would have liked for him.”

Despite the setback, Murray said the experience had been enriching and would influence any future coaching opportunities.

“I think it’s important for a coach to bring good energy,” the 38-year-old added. “It’s something that if I ever coached again, I would work on and try to do a better job of it.” -Karan Prashant Saxena/Reuters